A/HRC/31/59/Add.1 12. Efforts to include and enable people to benefit from the development processes have been rolled out in parallel with nation-building policies that some interlocuters, however, felt promoted assimilation into dominant tribes. More recently, Botswana has adopted measures towards a better recognition of cultural diversity. In particular, Vision 2016: A Long-term Vision for Botswana, adopted in 1997 after extensive national consultations and which constitutes a statement of long-term goals and related strategies, aims at building a united and proud nation with a diverse mix of cultures, languages, traditions and peoples sharing a common destiny.6 That aim responds to the finding of the Presidential Task Group on a Long-term Vision for Botswana that the country had not yet succeeded in enlisting the social and cultural diversity of the country in a shared vision of the future.7 13. Botswana has adopted several good policies in that regard, including the 2001 National Policy on Culture. The Government has expanded the number of cultural activities — such as competitions — across the country and supports numerous festivals, including those of minority groups such as the San and the Hambukushu. Nevertheless, there is a need to provide more spaces for people, especially children, youth and artists, to engage in creative activities as well as sports, in both rural and urban centres. 14. Despite commendable efforts on the part of the Government, many people feel excluded from the main society and lack recognition of their cultural heritage and distinct ways of life, including their historical narratives. It seems that now is the time for a second phase of nation-building that reflects on, builds upon and celebrates the country’s rich cultural diversity. An in-depth national dialogue at various levels with all stakeholders would help to determine the way forward. From a cultural rights-based perspective, this implies equal recognition and acknowledgement of the various communities in the country and of the diverse ways in which people relate to their environment, natural resources and land. The Special Rapporteur is confident that Botswana can address these challenges by relying on its strong tradition of consultation, democratic debate and freedom of expression. III. Realizing cultural rights in Botswana: specific issues 15. Key cultural rights issues are currently the subject of considerable debates in Botswana. A. System of governance, cultural rights and respect for cultural diversity 16. Botswana can be proud of its democratic tradition that is characterized by an open attitude which allows consultation and debate on major policy issues. As stated in Vision 2016, this encouragement of ideas and free thinking gives the country the opportunity to adapt to the modern world with a measure of consensus among its people.8 Therisanyo, or “wide consultation”, is a key planning principle. Consultations are organized through the kgotla system (traditional community meetings) as well as district and village development committees. 17. Botswana strives to maintain a delicate balance between customary law and common law in an effort to preserve its cultural heritage and to ensure development while seeking its own path. As stated in Vision 2016, the cooperative relationship between traditional leaders and elected political leaders is aimed at promoting social tranquility and 6 7 8 See A/HRC/WG.6/3/BWA/1, paras. 118-119. Botswana, Vision 2016, Booklet (1997), p. 5. Ibid., p. 22. 5